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Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Bush taking steps before presenting Iraq plan
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- President Bush will consult with Congress and the Iraqi government in the next few days -- steps he had pledged to take before announcing any tactical changes in his policy on the Iraq war, according to administration officials.

Bush will host the Democratic and Republican leadership of the House and Senate at an evening White House reception Wednesday, officials told CNN. During that reception, he will hold "informal discussions about the year ahead," including his deliberations on Iraq.

Those invited include incoming House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Minority Leader John Boehner, incoming Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

However, Bush has not yet reached out to Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki to discuss the Iraq plan, as was expected before he addresses the American people. Administration officials have stressed, though, they remain in "constant" contact with Iraqi officials. Several sources said Bush is not expected to address the nation this week, but likely will do so next week.

Bush has not signed off on any changes, including a possible surge in U.S. troops, according to sources knowledgeable about his deliberations on Iraq. But the sources say he is "driving toward a conclusion" and a plan is "taking shape" and "getting more detailed" as the president puts "on the finer points."

-- CNN White House Correspondent Suzanne Malveaux
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